New statue of Sisters of Mercy foundress finds a home at St. Mary Academy - Bay View

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RIVERSIDE — Mercy Day was celebrated on Monday, September 24 at St. Mary Academy – Bay View, commemorating the 175th anniversary of when the Sisters of Mercy arrived in the United States. The school, founded by the Sisters of Mercy, gathered as a community to pray and learn more about Catherine McAuley, the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, and unveil a new, life-size statue of McAuley, before students, alumnae, faculty, staff and members from the Sisters of Mercy.

Sister Marybeth Beretta, R.S.M., President of Bay View explained that she had been anxiously waiting Catherine’s arrival.

“When she arrived, my first thought was, fill me with your wisdom, inspire in my faculty, staff and students, your sense of compassion, your integrity, your care for all.”

She shared that as the statue was uncovered and hoisted on top of the platform, made by parents of a Bay View student, her eyes filled with tears and a sense of hope for the school.

“A sense that she was home now, here among us and with us at Bay View,” said Sister Beretta. “For all who gaze upon here as they arrive at Bay View, my hope and prayer is that you see and grow to love and admire this woman of mercy, who dedicated her life in compassionate service to others. May she remind each of us the joy we receive when we embody, radiate and share the gift of mercy with others.”